Maggie Daley Park Play Garden in Chicago offers an oasis of fun where children can explore whimsical play structures and engage in creative activities. Find out why this spot is an ideal destination for family outdoor adventure while being conveniently close to other major Chicago attractions.
Why Visit Maggie Daley Park Play Garden?
If you're visiting Chicago for the first time or searching for exciting things to do with kids in Chicago, Maggie Daley Park Play Garden should be at the top of your list.
Located in the heart of Downtown Chicago, this 3-acre wonderland is a testament to innovative city design and family-friendly entertainment. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this enchanting space provides unique playtime for children and a relaxing retreat for parents.
The Maggie Daley Park Design
The Play Garden's design draws inspiration from classic children's literature, such as the fantastical worlds of "Alice in Wonderland" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." This approach creates an environment where play and nature seamlessly intertwine, encouraging exploration, creativity, and physical activity.
The park's layout features a series of interconnected spaces, each with its own theme and play structures. This design allows children to discover new adventures as they move through the garden, keeping them engaged and excited throughout their visit. The Play Garden is just one part of the larger Maggie Daley Park, which also includes a climbing wall, a mini-golf course, and an ice-skating ribbon in winter, making it a year-round destination for family fun.
Overview of the Play Gardens
The Sea
"The Sea" is an 8,500-square-foot play area designed for children aged five to 12. Its centerpiece is a large-scale, custom-built metal play ship, complete with multiple entry and exit points, ladders, nets, and a captain's wheel. Kids can also explore the Whale and Lighthouse Tower, which features kid-powered light generation, talking tubes, and viewing scopes. This area is perfect for imaginative play, allowing children to become sailors, pirates, or marine explorers.
The Watering Hole
Perfect for younger children aged two to five, "The Watering Hole" is a 1,200-square-foot animal-themed space. It features three interactive animal figures and small spray features for water play. A central wooden platform serves as a stage for creative play or a resting spot for parents, while a large shade structure offers protection from the sun. This area provides a safe and engaging environment for toddlers to explore and interact with their surroundings.
The Harbor
"The Harbor" is a boat-themed play area spanning 2,000 square feet. It includes a raised boardwalk, a covered central marina area, and three full-sized play boats that children can move around. The graded blue play surface creates the illusion of water, enhancing the maritime experience. This area is ideal for fostering collaborative play and storytelling among children.
Enchanted Forest
The Enchanted Forest is a 3,590-square-foot network of pathways and play zones designed to spark outdoor play and sensory exploration. Unique features include upside-down tree archways, a rotating "Turning Stone," a circular tea party table, and the Kaleidoscope, an open mirrored maze set in a grove of Quaking Aspen trees. This whimsical area encourages children to engage with nature in creative and unexpected ways.
Wave Lawn
The Wave Lawn is a 16,530 square foot area that cuts through the center of the Play Garden. Its rolling landscape is perfect for games like hide-and-seek or "capture the flag." The Wave Lawn offers a more open space for running, rolling, and enjoying picnics, providing a perfect balance to the more structured play areas.
Attractions Near the Play Garden at Maggie Daley Park
While the Play Garden is a destination in itself, its location in Chicago puts it close to many other world-class attractions. After exploring the Play Garden, consider visiting some of these nearby sites:
- Millennium Park: Just a short walk away, this iconic park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as "The Bean") and the Crown Fountain.
- Art Institute of Chicago: One of the world's premier art museums, featuring an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. Art enthusiasts can explore famous artworks and enjoy a cultural experience just steps away from the Play Garden.
- Navy Pier: A little further afield, this historic landmark offers dining, shopping, and entertainment options along Lake Michigan. It's a great place to continue your family adventure with rides, attractions, and beautiful lake views.
- Shedd Aquarium: Home to over 32,000 aquatic animals, the Shedd Aquarium is a must-visit for animal lovers. It provides an excellent educational opportunity for children to learn about marine life and conservation.
These attractions, along with the Play Garden, showcase why Chicago is an ideal destination for families and adventure-seekers alike. The city's diverse offerings ensure that visitors of all ages can find something to enjoy, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences.
Plan Your Chicago Adventure With CityPASS® Tickets
Maggie Daley Park Play Garden is just one of the many exciting attractions Chicago has to offer. To make the most of your visit to the Windy City, consider using CityPASS® tickets to experience the best of Chicago's attractions while saving you time and money. You can create your own Chicago adventure, combining visits to world-class museums, iconic skyscrapers, and family-friendly attractions.
By using CityPASS® tickets, you'll have the flexibility to explore Chicago at your own pace, ensuring that you don't miss out on any of the city's must-see attractions. From Skydeck Chicago to the Shedd Aquarium and the Art Institute of Chicago, you'll have access to a variety of experiences that cater to all interests and ages.
Explore Chicago CityPASS® ticket options and make your trip to the Maggie Daley Park Play Garden part of a fantastic city experience.
Chicago Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Chicago, we recommend finding lodging near Chicago's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.com